Content Editor
July 18, 2023

Theater culture in Manila - as with the rest of the world - is very different from how celebrity culture normally is. While it might (keyword: might) be okay for some celebrities to be approached after a show for a selfie, the same cannot be said for theater performers - and for good reason as well.

 

Recently, a "fan" of Miss Lea Salonga (Miss Saigon, Les Miserables), accused the actress of being rude to them when they came to the actress' dressing room after the premiere of her most recent venture, Here Lies Love.

 

The fan, identified as Christopher Retokelly Carpila, shared a now viral video, that narrated how Lea Salonga was rude to them and, in his words, "para kaming mga basurang pinagtabuyan sa harap ng taong andoon." 

 

Carpila also added, "siguro naman bilang kapwa Pilipino at mga fans eh mabigyan ng kahit konting respeto. At kahit hindi na yakapin or ibeso ay mapagbigyan na kahit sandaling magpa-picture." 

 

 

The video has since garnered a lot of opinions from the internet - all of them taking Salonga's side on the matter. The actress was not at all rude in asking them to leave because she did not know them and she was well within her rights to ask them to wait at the stage door.

 

Which brings us to the point of this article; with a show like Hamilton coming to the Philippines in September, it's important to know basic theater and stage door etiquette that will not land you in the same place as this Facebook user who couldn't identify boundaries. 

 

That said, here's some basic theater and stage door etiquette that will SAVE YOU a lot of trouble: 

 

5 Theater Etiquette Tips that WILL Save Your Life

Theater is beginning to boom in the Philippines with the rise of local productions such as Ang Huling El Bimbo and Rak of Aegis but it's always been a part of the country's arts - not a lot of people just have an appreciation for it. 

 

That said, some "new" theater goers might find it a bit too "strict" to adhere to theater etiquette - it will save you a lot of heat from the "veteran" audiences. 

 

Dress for the Occasion 

 

Image from 40PlusStyle

 

Do you go to the beach wearing jeans? Do you attend corporate events in your pajamas? The same is the case for attending theater shows. Be comfortable but do not be sloppy. Depending on the venue, smart casual is always acceptable but if you're attending events like a Gala Night or an exclusive preview, you might want to bump up a bit and wear something semi-formal.

 

Do NOT Sing-Along or Recite Along with the Cast

 

It's tempting to try and impress other audience members with your mastery of the script or the song BUT DON'T DO IT. Your seatmates will not be impressed, rather, annoyed that you are singing or reciting along with the cast. It goes without saying that, if you do sing or recite along, you are ruining the experience for others.

 

Be on time

 

Filipino time does NOT apply in theater. If the show starts at 6PM, be there at least 20 or 30 minutes earlier; this will allow you a bit of time to freshen up and go to the restroom before the performance starts so you don't have to get up in the middle of it. Arrive on time as it is a form of respect for the production itself and for your fellow audience members. 

 

Don't Take Videos or Photos 

 

 

Unless you are part of the press or if the cast and staff says that its okay, keep your cameras to yourself. Do not record or take photos of the performance as it is very much illegal and might even be a grounds for you to be dismissed from the show. We know that you want to keep a souvenir for yourself but don't take photos or videos - it will only get you in trouble.

 

Stay Awake 

 

This is self-explanatory but do not fall asleep at a theater performance. Not only is it rude to the performers but it is also unacceptable to those around you that you're sleeping with the potential of creating other disruptive sounds. 

 

Stagedooring in the Philippines: What You Need to Remember

 

Theater fans distinguish themselves by their commitment to staying long after the encore and curtain call, engaging in a unique practice known as stagedooring.

 

The stage door, typically used by actors and theater staff when entering or exiting the theater, gives rise to the term stagedooring. It refers to the act of waiting by the stage door after a performance, hoping to meet the actors and obtain autographs and photos.

 

If you're fortunate enough to be favored by this time-honored tradition, your beloved theater actors may emerge from their stage doors to sign autographs. With even greater luck, they might spend some time taking photos and engaging in brief conversations.

 

However, before embarking on your own stagedooring adventure, it's crucial to be well-prepared. To make sure that you're still following proper etiquette and observing proper decorum, here's what you should remember about stagedooring in the metro: 

 

Wait at the Stage Door - NO WHERE ELSE

 

Image from Theater Fans in Manila | The Stagedoor of The Theatre at Solaire

 

If you're looking to score an autograph or a selfie, your best bet is at the stage door - not in the theater - not in the lobbies - and most definetely NOT in the dressing rooms. Learn to wait for the actors to emerge from the theater before walking up to them. NEVER go to their dressing rooms uninvited, not only is it disrespectful but its also distasteful. You wouldn't want someone who don't know going up to your private quarters like they owned the place, right? 

 

The Actors Don't Owe You Anything

 

Stopping at a stage door is not a legal obligation for actors; rather, it is a tradition that has been embraced. If an actor chooses not to stop at the stage door before or after a particular performance, it is understandable to feel disappointed. However, it is important to recognize that it is not a part of their job description. They have the same right as anyone else to walk away. It is essential to respect their decisions.

 

Learn to be Patient 

 

Instead of leaving during the curtain call in an attempt to reach the stage door quickly, it is advisable to pre-plan your actions. By having a strategy in place beforehand, you can ensure that you know the most efficient way to get to the stage door promptly once the curtain is lowered.

 

Be Mindful of Others

 

It is important to show consideration towards fellow theater fans, which includes refraining from pushing and shoving while waiting in line for autographs. Additionally, it is essential not to take up excessive time with the stars, allowing others the opportunity to interact with them as well.

 

Be Appreciative 

 

Being at the "stage door" is essentially an act of fan service, and it's not obligatory for cast members to linger and engage with the audience after the show concludes. Remember to express a kind compliment and gratitude for the time they have dedicated to stagedooring.

 

Navigating Through Theater 

 

Theater culture in Manila, like elsewhere, differs significantly from general celebrity culture. While it may be acceptable for some celebrities to be approached for selfies after a show, the same cannot be assumed for theater performers, and for good reason. A recent incident involving Lea Salonga highlighted the importance of understanding boundaries and respecting theater etiquette.

 

To navigate the theater experience successfully, it is essential to follow basic theater etiquette guidelines. Dress appropriately for the occasion, avoid singing along or reciting lines during the performance, arrive on time to show respect to the production and fellow audience members, refrain from taking unauthorized photos or videos, and remain attentive throughout the performance.

 

When it comes to stagedooring, remember to wait at the stage door and not invade private spaces like dressing rooms. Understand that actors are not obligated to stop at the stage door, so be patient and respectful of their choices. Show consideration towards fellow theater fans by avoiding pushing or taking up excessive time with the stars. Finally, express appreciation and offer kind compliments to the actors for their time and dedication.

 

By adhering to these guidelines, theater enthusiasts can enhance their experience and contribute to a positive and respectful theater community in the Philippines.